First, the misconception: a "saltwater pool" is still a chlorine pool. The salt system (a chlorine generator) converts dissolved salt into chlorine continuously, instead of you adding chlorine manually. The question isn't chlorine vs. no chlorine — it's how the chlorine gets there.
The case for saltwater
Owners consistently describe softer-feeling water, less chlorine smell, and less eye and skin irritation — the system maintains a steadier, lower chlorine level than periodic manual dosing. Day-to-day maintenance is lighter: no hauling and storing chlorine, fewer chemical swings. Over a Texas swim season that runs seven-plus months, the convenience is real. Salt systems have become the default choice on most new custom builds here.
The honest costs
Upfront, a salt chlorine generator adds roughly $1,500–$2,500 to a new build. The generator's cell is a consumable — expect to replace it every 3–7 years at several hundred to over a thousand dollars. You save on chlorine purchases in the meantime, so lifetime costs often land close to even; salt wins on convenience more than on money.
What salt is harder on
Salt water is mildly corrosive to certain materials over years of exposure: some natural stone coping and decking (especially softer limestone), certain metal fixtures, and equipment not rated for salt systems. This is a design-stage conversation, not a dealbreaker — builders who install salt systems routinely spec salt-friendly stone, sealers, and hardware. Raise it before materials are chosen, not after.
When traditional chlorine still makes sense
Smaller budgets where the upfront add matters, pools with extensive natural stone features you don't want to re-seal on a schedule, and owners who already use a weekly pool service (the service handles chemicals either way, shrinking salt's convenience advantage).
Bottom line
Salt = smoother ownership experience, modest premium, mind your materials. Traditional chlorine = lower upfront cost, more hands-on. Either produces a clean, safe pool — ask each builder you interview what they install most and why. Compare builders by city in the directory.